When Hurricane Isabel struck the East Coast of America in 2003, it killed 16 people and cut power for 16 million homes. The people in the government responsible for society’s wellbeing went into safe quarters. However, at Arlington National Cemetery, guards stood firm, just as they had since July of 1937, even though these men were given permission to take shelter.
Because that’s what a man does. He acknowledges the danger of the storm but still faces it to protect his loved ones. Figuratively, all of us men face storms like these in our lives, during which our courage is tested. This begs to question – what does a man look like?
Here’s what the Bible has to say about manhood.
1. A Man Leads and Serves His Family
“23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body.”
Ephesians 5:23
Leading and serving might seem like a contradiction, but according to the Bible, they are inseparable. While the Bible does allow the man to be the leader, it quickly nullifies any ideas that might allow male dominance by stating “Christ is the head of the church.” This passage carries on to say:
“25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;”
Ephesians 5:25
This shows us a picture of leadership that is entirely different from how the modern world views it. A man is supposed to be a servant-leader, according to the Bible. He is supposed to put the needs of his children and his wife before his own. His job is to demonstrate love that is selfless and sacrificial—the kind of love God has for his children.
2. A Man Is God’s Blueprint of Masculinity
“8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?.”
Micah 6:8
A man’s life is built on his relationship with God. A man who walks humbly along with God is always empowered and motivated. This man is always ready to step up to take his responsibilities and make hard decisions. A man who is courageous never takes a day off.
3. A Man Provides
“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”
Timothy 5:8
These are strong words. When a man doesn’t provide for his family, he feels a sense of shame and his sense of self-worth sinks. A man who keeps skipping jobs or can’t keep a job makes his children and wife feel insecure. According to the scripture, a man is supposed to provide for his family.
Wrapping Up
Understand what the Bible has to say about manhood is a long journey that can be exciting and liberating. To know more, contact Dr. Andrew Knight for your certificate in Biblical Apologetics by calling him on +1 877-411-5300.